S. Weir Mitchell — Ode on a Lycian Tomb

New York, Privately Printed, De Vinne Press, [1899]. Leather. Silas Weir Mitchell reflects on mourning and loss in this moving poem loosely modelled on Keats' Ode on a Grecian Urn. A privately printed copy, inscribed by the author. A signed copy of Ode on a Lycian Tomb by American physician, scientist, and poet, Silas Weir Mitchell. Considered one of his best works, Mitchell's elegantly crafted poem speaks honestly about loss and mourning following the death of his daughter to diphtheria in 1898. In the 19 stanza poem modelled on Keats' Ode on a Grecian Urn, the poet stands before the sorrowful face of a woman on an ancient Lycian tomb. Although the poem was more widely published in 1914, this copy was privately printed by the author, and is inscribed by him to the recto of the front free endpaper. The ink inscription reads, 'Dear Janny. This is the little book. Yours always, Weir. Jan - 1900&apos. Mitchell is considered the father of medical neurology, and pioneered the rest cure or bed rest for patients, as well as discovering complex regional pain syndrome and a vascular pain disorder where vessels in the extremities can become blocked. Prior owner's bookplate to front pastedown. 'Egerton Parker&apos. Undated. Dated using JISC from estimates by the Hathi Trust Digital Library. In a full calf binding. Externally, smart. A little rubbed to the front board and joint, with some minor wear to the extremities. Internally, firmly bound. Aside from the rear endpaper which is lightly spotted, pages are bright and clean throughout. Near Fine . Ill.: None. Near Fine .